Study Links Robotic-Assisted Surgeries to Better Outcomes

A study by the UCLA School of Medicine found that patients who underwent robotic-assisted surgeries to remove cancerous bladders had lower mortality and complication rates than those who underwent traditional surgeries. However, the study -- which was partly funded by the Department of Defense -- noted that the robotic procedures cost an average of $3,000 more than traditional surgeries.

• "Robot Surgery Has Better Outcomes" (Payers & Providers, 4/5).